Transmission Coefficient Measurements of UV Window/Filter/Lens System for Vinton Camera

The UV transmission coefficients of various optical components of the CF Vinton camera system were measured in the laboratory over 320-950 nm wavelength region. The suitability of these components for use in UV aerial surveillance work was assessed. In summary, the present system consisting of the window, UV filter and UV lens form a reasonably good system for use in UV aerial surveillance. In particular, the system is totally blocked above about 390 nm. However, it has relatively limited peak transmission and the passband does not extend to still shorter UV wavelengths which are transmitted through the atmosphere. The transmittance of the system could be increased and extended to shorter UV wavelengths by improving the UV transmission characteristics of the lens or/ and window. As discussed above, the filter/lens combination has higher transmittance than the window/filter/lens combination and should be used whenever it is feasible. Abstract in French.